Music holds a unique power. It can evoke a spectrum of emotions, from pure joy to utter despair. Certain songs seem to have a universal appeal, uniting people under a shared melody. The Beatles, for instance, crafted anthems that transcend personal taste, leaving little room for disagreement on their brilliance.
However, not every masterpiece demands intricate composition. Sometimes, simplicity reigns supreme. Songs with straightforward structures can deliver a powerful punch, lacking the complexity to be hated, yet possessing the charm to be undeniably enjoyable.
But then there are those rare tracks that strike a perfect chord. Every element aligns, creating an infectious energy that compels people to move, emote, and connect.
These songs may not be the most profound, but their ability to uplift spirits in any situation is undeniable. If someone claims to despise these universally loved tunes, well, their lack of reaction might suggest a more serious issue entirely.
10. “Landslide” – Fleetwood Mac (1975)
Despite the rockstar lifestyle, Stevie Nicks’ “Landslide” reveals a vulnerability that resonates deeply. Joining Fleetwood Mac thrust her into the spotlight, yet the song grapples with uncertainty and the passage of time. Nicks reflects on building connections with people who eventually move on, mirroring the impermanence of life itself.
The song feels like a personal reflection, perhaps best experienced with just a single guitar. The live version with Fleetwood Mac years later takes on a new dimension, showcasing Nicks’ journey and the enduring power of “Landslide” as a testament to survival.
9. “Fast Car” – Tracy Chapman (1988)
Financial hardship is a universal struggle, and “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman captures that reality with raw honesty. The song paints a picture of a woman battling poverty, seeking a better life for her family.
Chapman’s voice evokes a sense of quiet desperation, a woman yearning for a brighter future while acknowledging the harsh realities of her present. The ending, with a move to the suburbs, feels bittersweet, a glimmer of hope amidst the struggle. “Fast Car” is a reminder of life’s challenges, but it also carries a message of resilience, urging us to keep pushing forward.
8. “Piano Man” – Billy Joel (1973)
Billy Joel might not be everyone’s cup of tea, often dismissed as “dad rock”. Yet, songs like “Piano Man” prove his enduring appeal. It’s a celebration of music itself, a captivating melody that paints a vivid picture of a local dive bar with a talented pianist entertaining a diverse crowd.
While Joel himself might be tired of the song after years of performing it, “Piano Man” earns its place on this list. Its quality and the relatable slice-of-life scene it depicts make it a song that deserves to be played on repeat, a timeless ode to the power of music in our lives.
7. “Mr. Blue Sky” – Electric Light Orchestra (1977)
ELO might wear their Beatles influence proudly, but their ability to transform rock songs into orchestral epics is undeniable. “Mr. Blue Sky” is proof of that, a pure shot of sunshine inspired by a post-storm sunrise.
Jeff Lynne penned the song after witnessing the natural wonder, and it’s evident in the uplifting melody and Beatles-esque references scattered throughout. Even if you’re not a die-hard Beatles fan, “Mr. Blue Sky” has a timeless quality that’s further solidified by its recent inclusion in Guardians of the Galaxy. This feel-good anthem might just make even the most mundane Monday morning a little brighter.
6. “Purple Rain” – Prince (1984)
Prince, a true musical genius, left behind a discography brimming with genre-bending masterpieces. “Purple Rain” is a shining evidence of his greatness, a song with seemingly no flaws. It’s a heart-wrenching breakup anthem that blends rock, soul, and gospel, showcasing Prince’s raw emotional vulnerability.
From the haunting opening chords to the legendary guitar solo, “Purple Rain” is a powerful sonic journey. Prince pours his soul into every note, lamenting a lost love and using his guitar as an extension of his grief. Skip the radio edit and embrace the extended outro, a musical nirvana that perfectly concludes not just the album, but perhaps the greatest story ever told.
5. “Friday I’m In Love” – The Cure (1992)
The Cure aren’t exactly known for sunshine and rainbows. Their signature dark aesthetic and melancholic sound paints a different picture. However, Robert Smith surprised everyone with “Friday I’m In Love”, a joyous departure from their usual style.
In a band known for songs about lost love and heartbreak, “Friday I’m In Love” stands out as a beacon of pure romantic bliss. Smith throws caution to the wind, singing about loving his partner every single day of the week. The song’s unconventional key changes add a dreamlike quality, making it feel like a perfect pop song you might dream up and never quite remember upon waking.
4. “Hey Ya” – Outkast (2003)
Songwriters love a good twist, and André 3000 of Outkast mastered the art of hiding darkness within a seemingly happy song. “Hey Ya” is a classic case, with lyrics that paint a bleak picture of love’s demise and existential angst.
Yet, André 3000 delivers it with such infectious energy that it becomes an irresistible dancefloor anthem. The music video parodies classic TV shows, the groove is undeniable, and the breakdown towards the end is pure sonic bliss. It’s a testament to André 3000’s songwriting prowess that a song about the hollowness of relationships can still get everyone moving.
3. “Bohemian Rhapsody” – Queen (1975)
Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” is a testament to the iconic band’s brilliance. Beyond Freddie Mercury’s electrifying stage presence, their studio work was legendary. They masterfully blended progressive rock, pop, and theatrical elements into a seamless masterpiece. This wasn’t easy. Nearly half a century later, no one has replicated the audacity of Bohemian Rhapsody.
The song’s genius lies in its defiance of convention. Originally three separate pieces, Mercury combined them into an operatic odyssey. It features an a cappella intro, a ballad verse, an operatic middle section, and a powerful rock finale. While a wild ride, Bohemian Rhapsody shouldn’t be attempted at karaoke. It’s a marvel to be admired, not imitated.
2. “Mr Brightside” – The Killers (2003)
The Killers’ “Mr. Brightside” is a prime example of the power of crafting songs with longevity in mind. While chasing fleeting chart success is tempting, aiming for timeless impact is what truly matters. Mr. Brightside has achieved the latter, defying the fate of many songs that fade into kitsch as time passes.
Unlike many tracks, Mr. Brightside’s relevance has only grown. Its iconic chorus and relatable themes of jealousy and heartbreak resonate with listeners across generations. The song’s enduring appeal is undeniable, reminding us that sometimes, the best songs are born from raw emotions and a desire to create something that transcends trends.
1. “Here Comes the Sun” – The Beatles (1969)
The Beatles brought joy to a world still reeling from tragedy. Amidst the brilliance of John Lennon and Paul McCartney, George Harrison penned one of the sunniest songs ever: “Here Comes the Sun”. While skipping business meetings, he crafted this gem in Eric Clapton’s garden, a perfect complement to “Something” on Abbey Road. This airtight pop masterpiece takes the natural world and melts away all negativity.
Harrison’s brilliance continued with his triple album All Things Must Pass. While Lennon and McCartney mastered the pop formula, “Here Comes the Sun” transcends it. This magical piece feels like a precious diamond, a testament to the enduring power of music that simply makes you feel good.